spokesman Geoff Leigh predicting the proposed re-tendering of statewide regional rail operations in 2006 would result in West Coast Railway being "executed". Although West Coast Railway stated as late as May 2004 its intention to negotiate a new contract to operate Warrnambool services beyond the expiry of its existing contract in June 2004, with the expected locomotive repair bill to be in excess of $1 million it decided not to seek a renewal. On 31 August 2004, West Coast Railway operated its final services with V/Line resuming services the following day. Most of the diesel locomotives were sold to Chicago Freight Car Leasing Australia. R711 was allocated to Steamrail Victoria by its owners. Steamrail Westcoaster Beginning in 2018, the heritage rail tour company Steamrail Victoria introduced a new tour named the "Warrnambool Westcoaster" to Warrnambool as a special homage to the former regular steam services of West Coast Railway. The tour was hauled by ex-West Coast engine R711, which was allocated to Steamrail in 2004 and re-entered service in 2011. Originally operated as a charter for local resident and Steamrail volunteer Edward White, the tour was deemed extremely popular, becoming part of Steamrail's range of day tours from 2019 with heritage diesel S313 assisting. References Defunct railway companies of Australia Railway companies established in 1993 Railway companies disestablished in 2004 Veolia Australian companies established in 1993 Australian companies disestablished in 2004